Austin Sports & Rec: The Best of Austin Outdoors

Run in the Motorola Marathon, the Capitol 10K, or any number of weekend races. Row on Lake Austin. Ride bikes with Lance Armstrong in the Run for the Roses. Golf on any of the area’s beautiful courses. Play basketball on a city court, or work out at one of the many gyms in the region. Whatever kind of jock you are, Austin is the place to be. Area spectators also enjoy life on the sidelines. The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is the centerpiece of Austin sports, and football is the centerpiece of UT sports. Longhorn fans come from across the state for UT football games, as well as basketball, baseball, volleyball, swimming and track. It’s all here in Austin!

Parks and Recreation

Home to seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, Austin is a haven for cyclists, with a mild climate, rolling terrain and a network of diverse hike and bike trails fit for both mountain bikes and road cycles. The City of Austin employs staff bicycle program coordinators (512-974-7240) to improve safety and access on all cycle routes. Also, bike racks have been placed on many Capital Metro buses to accommodate cycling commuters.

Barton Creek Greenbelt
Perhaps the most popular area trail for mountain bikers, this rugged patch of terrain stretches from Zilker Park to beyond Loop 360 and presents a challenge for novices and experienced bikers alike. Bull Creek is located here.
Emma Long Motocross Park (City Park)
Both motocross bikes and mountain bikes are welcome at City Park, but all riders must be prepared for a strenuous trail that requires technical riding skills. At 1600 City Park Road, the terrain leads riders into steep drops and climbs on limestone ledges.

Austin is known for being one of the most dog-friendly towns in Texas. There are so many places you can take your pups, and getting them out and about increases their ability to socialize with people and pets.

There are many favorite local spots that allow pets on the patio. Some of our favorites include Amy’s Ice Cream, The Little Deli, Mesa Hills Café, Phil’s Ice House, Freddie’s Place and the Draught House Pub. Feel free to ask your local outdoor eatery if they allow pups, and spread the word about those that do. They’re making the world a more dog-friendly place, one business at a time. You also can shop with your dogs at REI, most Home Depots, Lowe’s and Whole Earth Provisions.

Dog parks are fun places to get exercise for your spayed or neutered pup and to meet other dog owners. Be careful, however, as dog parks are not staffed with trained professionals, and other owners may not care or know how to pull dogs apart if they’re playing too rough or get into a fight. Be responsible by keeping a close eye on your dog and others. If things get too intense, leash it up and take a walk. Give it a change of scenery, so that it doesn’t learn bad behaviors and take those to its boarding facility or doggy day care. For a great list of local parks and what to know before you go, visit www.dogplaces.com/parks.

Training is an important and fun activity you can do with your pet. Be sure to ask what kinds of methods are used, and rule out any that use harsh training methods like choke or pinch collars. Know that you are a big part of any training solution, so plan to be involved in classes. Look for places that use games and random rewards—treats mixed in with generous amounts of praise. Building a positive and loving relationship with your pet is your best bet, not to mention what they deserve.